Gone too soon, Stony Brook softball player Danni Kemp dies of cancer
The Stony Brooke softball team lost a sister Friday, as 19-year old Danni Kemp succumbed to an inoperable brain tumor, diagnosed last summer.
“Danni was a beautiful soul who had her entire life in front of her. I am devastated beyond words and heartbroken for her family and everyone who loved her. Her valiant fight over the past several months was an inspiration to all of us, and her impact on the Stony Brook Athletics family will be felt for many years to come,” Stony Brooke Director of Athletics Shawn Heilbron said in a statement.
A three-sport athlete in high school, Kemp never let anything stop her even after battling kidney cancer. She was recently selected as the Connecticut Sports Writers’ Alliance Bob Casey Courage Award winner.
“Our hearts are heavy today, and our love goes out to Danni and her family. In all too short of a young life, Danni touched so many in a beautiful way. She fought so hard against this terrible disease, and showed us what true courage is. May Danni only know peace now.” Stony Brook head softball coach Megan Bryant said.
The team was originally scheduled to play a pair of games Friday, but rescheduled both for Saturday.
Rest in peace Danni.
Today we plan for Danni Kemp #dannistrong pic.twitter.com/TJBn4wWln5
— QUINNIPIAC SOFTBALL (@QU_Softball) March 11, 2017
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Never take life for granted.. Heaven has gained another angel who never gave up fighting.. #DanniStrong 💙
— Matt Cruz (@mattcruz427) March 10, 2017
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Our hearts are broken in a million pieces – the world will never be the same 💙💙💙love you forever Danielle Kemp #dannistrong
— Mane Street Mirror (@ManeStMirror) March 10, 2017